Episode 09 –
If there’s one thing that this episode proved to me, it’s just how great the characters are. Chihayafuru has had a relatively goofy cast up until this point, but the powerful chemistry between these characters is what makes this show so great.
The chemistry between Chihaya and Taichi was especially noticable this time around. The few moments they had together were short, but powerful in the sense that they were inexplicitly aware of each other’s existences. Of course, Arata too proved to hold a key position here, where his text message (and Taichi’s reaction) confirms that there still exists some uncertainties and tensions amongst this trio.
Even so, the relationships with the rest of the club members are also growing by leaps and bounds, and all in a down to earth manner. The characters here really breathe life into this show, where their trust in each other, and determination to grow stronger, feels very genuine and sincere.
And what’s interesting to note here is how this show has continued to make karuta the central unifying point to the entire cast. I had been worried that this show might degrade into simple intense card game fights with no in-depth character growth (like many other sports-based anime). It seems those worries are unfounded, where karuta continues to add a new dimension to the characters at hand.
The only real thing that I find a little odd is how we haven’t really seen Taichi’s girlfriend around. Did they break up or something? Because I bet his girlfriend would be furious if she saw him with Chihaya.
Overall Enjoyment: 3.7/5
Screenshots are later in the post.
Distant Paradise 
The characters in this episode felt a lot better than when they were introduced, I think. It was good to learn about them, but they really are stronger as a group then as individuals.
yea, I definitely think their strengths work well as an entire group. Even more so for Chihaya, Taichi, and Arata, but even the rest of the group are a great contribution.